Liverpool’s chase for Bayer Leverkusen sensation Florian Wirtz could potentially upset Premier League adversary Arsenal this summer.
Despite previous reports indicating that the Reds were adopting a ‘watch and wait’ approach towards Wirtz, with Bayern Munich initially seen as the favorite, Liverpool.com understands that Liverpool has made contact with Leverkusen, and now looks to be leading the race for his signature after the 22-year-old made his desire to move to the Premier League clear.
While no deal has been struck with Leverkusen yet, and the asking price will be hefty, all signs suggest that Liverpool is hopeful of securing its target.
For Bayern, this is a significant blow to its transfer ambitions, as the Bundesliga champion has long admired one of Germany’s most promising young talents.
It’s uncertain where they’ll shift their focus now, but with several high-profile attackers available, they’ll need to make a swift – and possibly expensive – move to save face.
In recent times, Bayern has been associated with players such as Rafael Leao and Brighton’s Kaoru Mitoma, but Athletic Club’s Nico Williams and Real Madrid’s Rodrygo are arguably the biggest names in the attacking market this summer.
(Image: Photo by Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images)
Both Williams and Rodrygo have been associated with Arsenal, which seems increasingly set to bolster its attacking line-up ahead of next season.
Benjamin Sesko is rumored to be the main striker target at the Emirates Stadium, but interest in Rodrygo and Williams reportedly remains high, with the duo expected to be valued at around $95 million and $66 million respectively.
If Bayern were to join the chase for either player this summer, it would certainly heat up the competition, with Chelsea and Barcelona already among the clubs keeping tabs on the situation. As often happens in the transfer market, one move can set off a chain reaction, potentially leading to several deals falling into place.
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For Liverpool, securing Wirtz would be a significant achievement, especially with his Leverkusen teammate Jeremie Frimpong also reportedly on the brink of joining. Making a splash in the transfer market this summer would ensure Arne Slot’s team is ready to compete on all fronts, and possibly defend its Premier League title next season.
Liverpool.com says: Liverpool getting a deal done for Wirtz early could be huge considering the clamor there will be for attackers this summer.
Being ahead of the game when the likes of Arsenal and Bayern are going to be in the market for forwards gives the Reds a huge advantage, and hopefully that will equal more success next season.
* An AI tool was used to add an extra layer to the editing process for this story. You can read the original story in the Liverpool ECHO by clicking here.
